How to use trams in Amsterdam: tickets, routes & tips

How to use trams in Amsterdam: tickets, routes & tips

Trams are the most popular form of public transport in Amsterdam. The tram network covers almost the entire city, except for the northern district of Amsterdam Noord. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about trams in Amsterdam: how to pay for them, where to buy tickets, and how to get around.

Amsterdam tram routes and travel planner app

Amsterdam public transport (GVB) operates 24 hours a day. Trams generally run from around 06:00 until 00:30. You can check the exact timetable for your tram route in the 9292.nl app.

You can find a map of Amsterdam tram routes at the official GVB website. However, the 9292.nl website or app will be more useful for planning your trip.

After the trams stop working, from approximately 00:30 to 07:00, night buses operate in Amsterdam. In 2026, a night bus ticket costs € 5,70 and is valid for 1,5 hours. With a 1 – 7 day GVB ticket, you can also use the night buses at no extra charge.

How to use trams in Amsterdam?

Using trams in Amsterdam is very easy and intuitive. Follow these steps:

  1. Board the tram through the front door (near the driver) or the middle door (near the conductor).
  2. Check in as soon as you get on: hold your ticket or bank card against the validator inside the tram and make sure you hear a beep and see the message “Goede reis” (Have a good trip).
  3. Request your stop by pressing the Stop button located on the handrail before the tram reaches it.
  4. Check out when you leave: hold your ticket or bank card against the validator again and wait for the message “Tot ziens” (Goodbye).
Tram in Amsterdam check in

You can find our more detailed public transport guides here:

How to pay for the tram in Amsterdam?

There are several types of tickets valid on the public transport in Amsterdam:

Take a look at the I amsterdam City Card, which includes unlimited travel on Amsterdam trams. Check what is included in the card and order it online.

 

How to pay for the tram in Amsterdam?

How much do tram tickets cost in Amsterdam in 2026?

There are several types of GVB tickets for Amsterdam public transport (trams, buses and metro). They differ by validity period. The ticket becomes active from the moment you first check in on public transport.

TicketPrice in 2026Average price per day
1 hour€ 3,40
1 day – 24 hours€ 10,00€ 10,00
2 days – 48 hours€ 16,00€ 8,00
3 days – 72 hours€ 21,50€ 7,17
4 days – 96 hours€ 27,50€ 6,88
5 days – 120 hours€ 34,00€ 6,80
6 days – 144 hours€ 39,00€ 6,50
7 days – 168 hours€ 43,00€ 6,14

During the validity period, you can make unlimited journeys, including on night buses.

Please note that GVB tickets are not valid on the bus 391 to Zaanse Schans and bus 316 to Volendam (both operated by R-NET) and on the bus 397 from Schiphol. If you want to use these buses and transport in Amsterdam, we recommend buying Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket.

How to use public transport in Amsterdam?

Where to buy tram tickets in Amsterdam?

Important! Since 2023, tram drivers no longer sell tickets on board. You can buy tickets:

  • online – you can use the ticket in the app immediately after purchase
  • from GVB ticket machines (single-use and 24 – 96 hour tickets)
  • at GVB Tickets & Info offices (for example, on the square near Amsterdam Central Station).

Remember that you can also pay for the trams with OV-pay (tap in/tap out with your bank card). You need a separate bank card for every traveller.

 

Where to buy tram ticket in Amsterdam

FAQ about trams in Amsterdam in 2026

How late do the trams run in Amsterdam?

Trams in Amsterdam generally run from around 06:00 until 00:30. After that, night buses take over and operate from approximately 00:30 to 07:00.

How much is a tram ride in Amsterdam?

The price of a tram ride in Amsterdam depends on the payment method. If you pay with OV-pay (tap in/tap out with your bank pass), the price you pay boarding fee of € 1,16 + € 0,217 per/km. If you buy a single GVB ticket, the price is € 3,40/hour. If you buy a multi-day pass, the price starts from € 6,14/day.

How much does the tram cost in Amsterdam?

A single tram ride starts from € 3,40 for a 1-hour GVB ticket. If you’re taking several rides, a multi-day GVB pass works out cheaper — prices start from € 10,00 for 24 hours, dropping to around € 6,14 per day on a 7-day pass.

Is tram cheaper than metro in Amsterdam?

No, the tram is the same price as metro. Both the tram and the metro in Amsterdam are operated by GVB and use the same distance-based pricing system.

Are trams in Amsterdam running at night?

No. Trams in Amsterdam run from approximately 06:00 to 00:30. After the trams stop working, night buses operate in Amsterdam.

Can I transfer between tram, bus, and metro with one ticket?

Yes, if all three are operated by GVB and your ticket remains valid for the duration of the trip.

Is tram included in the I amsterdam City Card?

Yes, the I amsterdam City Card includes access to all public transport in Amsterdam, operated by GVB: tram, bus, metro and night buses.

Have a nice trip to Amsterdam!

 

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About the author:

Amsterdam Explorer travel guide, Anastasia Dudina

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